Minister Sports, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie has condemned the online abuse directed at Bafana Bafana midfielder Sphephelo ‘Yaya’ Sithole during the FIFA World Cup, urging supporters to back players through difficult moments.
Sithole came under heavy criticism following South Africa’s opening 2-0 defeat to Mexico, with the midfielder becoming the target of widespread abuse on social media after a difficult performance.
Speaking at the funeral of Bafana Bafana midfielder Jayden Adams in Stellenbosch on Saturday, McKenzie said criticism should never cross the line into personal attacks.
“When we lost Mexico, the whole country was sad but the abuse Yaya Sithole suffered and the degradation and humiliation as well as the words spoke over his life (were horrible to see),” McKenzie said.
The minister believes South African football must draw a clear distinction between passionate supporters and those who use the game as a platform for abuse.
“It is time people decide whether they are hooligans or football supporters because there are hooligans dressed up as football supporters.”
McKenzie said players who represent the national team deserve support even during difficult moments, warning that sustained online abuse can have lasting consequences beyond the football pitch.
His comments come at a time when player welfare and mental health have become increasingly important topics across world football, with governing bodies and clubs introducing greater psychological support for athletes.
McKenzie pointed to Kaizer Chiefs supporters as an example of the kind of loyalty he believes should define South African football culture.
“You look at Kaizer Chiefs, they went nine or ten years without a cup but they still have the best support in the country and we should learn from Kaizer Chiefs because despite that trophy drought, they supported their team and that for me is the true supporter.”
The minister’s remarks also echoed calls made by SAFA president Danny Jordaan earlier in the day for stronger mental health structures within South African football following the passing of Adams.
McKenzie believes supporters have an important role to play in protecting players, particularly during major tournaments where the pressure and scrutiny are at their highest.
While criticism will always be part of football, he said there is a clear difference between analysing performances and attacking the individual behind them.
For McKenzie, the treatment of Sithole after the Mexico defeat should serve as a reminder that footballers are human beings first, and that genuine support is measured not only during victories but also in moments of disappointment.
